Wheeler Peak 7/26/2018

Wheeler Peak is the second highest peak in NV.  13,063 feet high and a 8.2 mile RT hike starting at 10,016.

The trailhead is about 1/2 mile from the end of the road up to the high campground. It follows the contour lines for a straight mile through forest gaining little elevation before meeting the Alpine lakes trail and turning right to start climbing through meadows and trees.

 The start of the hike at 10,016 feet elevation.

This is a view of the mountain from the section of trail through the meadows and trees. The trail heads to the ridgeline on the right and follows it up to the top. The portion of the trail above timberline is half the total hike.

 Through the meadows there was a lot of Coyote mint.

 Higher up there was a lot of Ross Avens.

And some alpine paintbrush.

 About half way up the barren ridge is a flat spot to take a break before continuing up.

 On the final steep section the trail switchbacks up the narrow ridge to the top. The trail was clear the whole way up.

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 Amongst the rocks there were Parry's Primrose.

Also we saw Sky Pilots for the first time.

 The last section to the top leaves the ridgeline and traverses in a straight line to the top.

 At the top looking over into the next basin.

 Our group at the top.

 Proof of reaching the summit.

 This Is the rock shelter at the top where the mailbox is where you can sign the trail register.

Looking back down the ridge we came up.